Chicago Security Guard Defends Church Against Armed Robber

Jun 12, 2018

By: Robert Davis

An evening Bible study group was disrupted by the sounds of gunfire when an armed man walked in and announced a robbery, then exchanged shots with a security guard.
Both men were wounded. The 57-year-old security guard was shot once in the arm while the 25-year-old suspect was shot multiple times in the chest, according to police reports. Police say the security guard legally owned his weapon.

“That church never had any trouble, ever. No drug infestation, anything to that nature, no violence,” a church neighbor, Sal Brown, told ABC7 Chicago.

Community members said the robber was likely after donation money because of the nice cars in the parking lot and known members of the church.

The suspect was transported to the hospital in critical condition following the shooting. The security guard received treatment at the church before being transported to the hospital in good condition.

The suspect has been charged with felony counts of aggravated battery with a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon, attempted armed robbery with a firearm, and aggravated discharge of a firearm. He was denied bond and awaits sentencing in Cook County Jail.

Following the incident, the Senior Minister of the Church released a statement which was published by the Chicago Sun-Times.

“As products of this city, we know that senseless violence exists. What a commentary it is that you have to have armed security to worship the Lord. What does it say when saints are frightened when they come to the house of God?” the statement read, in part.

Robert Davis is a journalist from Colorado. He covers defensive gun use and Second Amendment policy for Gunpowder Magazine. Contact him at RobertDavis0414@gmail.com.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Gunpowder Magazine.